6 Best Espresso Machine Under $300: Powerful Machines You Can Afford

Are you looking for the best espresso machine but you already have a set budget?

Then you should check out my post!

I found and reviewed six of the best espresso machines under $300. Check out their designs, compare the beneficial features they offer and choose the model that meets your needs perfectly.

The Rundown

$300 Budget: What Can You Get?

A 300 dollar budget is a reasonable price for a good entry-level espresso machine. Here are the differnet types you can choose from:

Manual Espresso Machines

Manual machines are also the most affordable ones. They are generally made for use on trips and for that reason come in a somewhat smaller size and are very lightweight. There is a slight learning curve you need to master but in general, they are very easy to use. Their only downside is that they do not come with a heating system so you need another way to heat the brewing water (a kettle, portable stove, etc.).

Semi-Automatic Models

At this price point, your other option are semi-automatic models. They are not the professional semi-automatic models you can find but still provide you with some control. You get to adjust the shot size and control the steaming/frothing performance.

Can Espresso Machines Under $300 Make Good Espresso?

Yes, it can. However, keep in mind that you won’t get the results you would with a machine at a higher price point. The water pressure and the precise temperature level are what affect the brewing results the most. More expensive models allow you to control and adjust these features, and as a result, provide better results.

What Else Can You Use Them For?

All machines that come equipped with a steamer or a frother allow you to make versatile espresso/milk-based beverages including:

• a latte
• a cappuccino
• a macchiato
• a latte macchiato
• a mocha

Are These Machines Worth It?

Keep in mind that they are made for home use only. They are a great choice if you need a personal brewer or one to share with your roommate and enjoy coffee once or twice a day. However, these machines are not made to produce hundreds of servings per day. Such a high use will only wear them out.

Important Things To Think About

Now that we covered different types of espresso brewers, let us move on to the features and functions you need to keep in mind:

Consider Your Skill Level

Wheter you opt for a manual or an electric model, you will probably need some time to master the machine’s performance. Both are fairly easy to use but the manual ones do require a bit more manual effort. Now, if you already have some brewing experience, you won’t need too much time to master their performance.

How Much Coffee Do You Want To Brew At Once?

Be sure to check the machine’s brewing capacity before you opt for one. Manual portable machines are usually made to provide a single shot at a time while the larger countertop machines can brew multiple shots without you worrying about the water reservoir drying up.

How Much Time Does The Machine Need To Heat Up?

This is important as it informs you about the machine’s efficiency. At this price point, an espreso machine should be on for about 30 minutes for its entire brewing system (including the boiler and the pipes) to heat up (more expensive machines come with far more powerful heating systems and can do this is a much shorter time).

What About Its Extraction Pressure?

Extraction pressure is one of the most important features of the machine as it affects the quality of the breweed coffee. While espresso is commonly extracted at a 9 bar pressure, machines with a higher 15 to 20 bar extraction pressure will provide you with professional brewing results. For a $300 price, you can easily find 15 bar machines.

Is There A Difference Between A 15 And 20 Bar Machine?
Yes, there is, but not the one you will notice. A 20-bar pressure can be a slippery slope as it can burn your coffee grounds if you do not know how to control the brewing process.

Is There Such A Thing As A Too Low Pressure?
Yes, too low extraction pressure is everything below 9 bars. While these machines will still allow you to make an espresso, you won’t get the rich, creamy results you expect when you go out for a cup. These machines usually cost less than 100 dollars so you do not have to settle for them.

Can It Steam/Froth Milk?

Electric machines at this price point either have a steam wand or a frothing system. The former is made to steam milk, and most importantly, you can control it manually. The latter does the job for you and provides a rich, thick foam.

How Tall Are Your Coffee Cups?

This is something you need to think about as different espresso machines have different cup clearance spaces. If the machine’s spout is too low, you won’t be able to use the machine to make larger servings.

Is The Machine Easy To Clean?

It is very important that you clean your brewer properly and regularly to ensure that its performance doesn’t suffer. Since these brewers do not have that many complicated parts and accessories you won’t have any trouble keeping them clean. Some models even come with a self-cleaning mechanism that takes care of the machine for you. It is up to you only to maintain the machine’s exterior.

How Much Noise Does The Machine Create?

Even though they are much cheaper, these machines are much quieter than expensive commercial models. For reference, models with a 70 DB rating and lower are considered to be quiet.

Are Additional Accessories Incldued?

This is not the rule, but yes, some machines do come with additional accessories. These may include:

• coffee bean grinder – you get to freshly grind coffee beans to the perfect coarsness level and enjoy the freshest brewing results.
• a tamper/tamping station – it helps you tamp the grounds to ensure that you create a thick coffee puck.

6 Best Espresso Machines Under $300

Mr. Coffee One-Touch Espresso Maker

Single Cup Capacity
This is another espresso machine that provides you with a single cup per brewing process. It is the perfect choice for everyone who usually consumes a smaller amount of coffee. It also comes with an automatic frother that will dispense a delicious froth directly into your cup.

Simple Adjustments
Another thing worth mentioning is that this machine will provide you with very simple brewing adjustments. You can choose the brewing option you want to make and adjust the size of the brew according to your likings.

19 Bar Pump
Due to its powerful 19 bar extraction pressure pump, this espresso maker will provide you with a flavorful and extremely rich brew every time you use it. It can provide a perfect shot of espresso, a cappuccino, or a latte.

Height Adjustable Tray
The bottom drip tray of this espresso machine is height adjustable. This is an amazing feature because it allows you to adjust the cup tray according to the height of the cup you want to brew.

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NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine

Smart Capsule System
As opposed to the previous model, this model is made for use with coffee pods. The great thing is that it comes with a specially designed smart capsule system. It locks in all the flavors and richness of your coffee and ensures constant results with every single use.

Pod Compatibility
Note that this machine is compatible with versatile Nescafe Dolce Gusto coffee pods. However, it is not compatible with other single-serve pods or coffee cups. I wouldn’t say that this is a downside because the Nescafe pods provide a very wide range of flavors.

Brewing Options
This is the only machine that allows you to make both hot and cold brews with a simple push of a button. It is the perfect choice if you want an appliance that will provide you with brewing versatility.

Transparent Water Tank
The water tank that comes included with this maker is completely transparent. Thanks to this feature you’ll easily be able to check the amount of water that is left inside the water tank before the next brew. It is also completely removable so you won’t have trouble refilling it.

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Yabano Espresso Coffee Maker

Easy To Use
Because of its simple performance that doesn’t require any special skills or techniques, this model is perfect for beginners. It is designed to brew an espresso, cappuccino, or latte. No matter which option you choose, you can count on the best results.

Glass Carafe
This machine comes with a glass carafe. It will allow you to brew up to four servings at once. It has a long cool-touch handle that minimizes the possibility of accidental heat burns.

Steam Wand
The included steam wand is designed to make a rich and delicious froth in a very short time. Make sure that you clean it after every use to ensure that there is no bacteria build-up on the inside of its nozzle.

Affordable Price
This is another affordable model. It costs around fifty dollars, meaning, it is the perfect choice for everyone who is looking for a more budget-friendly option. Even though it is one of the cheapest models, it still provides amazing brewing performance.

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Chefman 6-in-1 Espresso Machine

Multipurpose Use
This machine is the perfect choice if you are looking for a model that will provide you with versatile brewing options. Obviously, it can make an espresso, but it makes delicious cappuccinos and lattes too. The best thing is that you can decide whether you want to make a single or a double shot.

Automatic Frother
Note that this latte maker comes with a fully automatic milk frother. This means that it will automatically froth the milk and dispense it straight into your cup. Once your beverage is complete, you can remove the milk reservoir and store it inside the fridge to ensure that the milk doesn’t go to waste.

Versatile Accessories
To provide you with an amazing brewing performance, thisbrewer comes with versatile accessories. Apart from its removable 1.8-liter water reservoir and 0.5-liter milk reservoir, the package also includes a ground measuring scoop/taper, a portafilter, and a shot basket, and a reversible metal coaster.

Low Maintenance
You won’t have to spend too much time cleaning this coffee machine. It features a self-cleaning cycle that keeps the internal brewing system perfectly clean. To clean the exterior you can simply use a damp cloth. Additionally, all removable parts are safe for dishwasher cleaning.

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Gevi Espresso Machine

Fast Heating System
This machine features a 1350W powerful and fast heating system. Thanks to this feature you will be able to easily brew one cup of coffee after the other. You won’t have to wait for the water to pre-heat again between the two brews.

20 Bar Pressure
Out of all 300 dollar espresso models I reviewed in this post, this one provides the most powerful extraction pressure, more precisely a 20 bar one. This means that it will extract all delicious coffee oils that usually remain trapped inside the grounds.

Separate Thermostats
Keep in mind that this machine comes with two separate thermostats. One controls the brewing temperature while the other one controls the frothing temperature. The result is a much richer and flavorful cup of coffee.

Manual Steamer
Compared to the previous models, I reviewed in this post, this one comes with a manual milk steamer. It is entirely made out of high-quality stainless steel material that makes it perfectly safe to use for frothing the milk.

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Wacaco Minipresso Espresso Machine

Small Size
This espresso machine comes in a somewhat smaller size. It can easily fit into the palm of your hand. This is what makes it such a great choice if you are in a need of a portable model you can easily carry around on your camping trips.

Manually Operated
This is the only model in this post that is manually operated. It doesn’t require any batteries or an electrical power source. Simply add coffee, boiling water, and you will have a delicious brew in no time.

Simple Performance
Keep in mind that this machine provides a very simple brewing performance. The best thing is that there is no need to add boiling water to the machine. You can use it any time and anywhere you want.

Additional Accessories
If you want to improve the performance of this maker, you can get some additional accessories. Keep in mind that they do not come included in the package. You will need to purchase them separately.

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Is There A Way To Spare More Money?

If you want to spare more money, you can find cheaper machines. Generally, these are portable models that cost around 50 to 100 dollars and have a much smaller brewing capacity of about 1 to 3 shots.

What Can You Get If You Invest A Bit More?

On the other hand, if you decide to invest a bit more, for a 500-dollar price you can find decent home brewers that offer versatile features and functions that provide you with a much higher control level.

Life Expectancy Of A $300 Brewer

While espresso machines generally last about 5 to 15 years, you can not expect this from cheaper models. This is mainly because they lack in quality (they are mainly made out of plastic materials). However, if cared for properly, you should be able to use these machines for about 3 to 5 years.

What Can You Do To Prolong It?

To prolong your machine’s lifespan, you need to make sure that you clean it and maintain it regularly. Clean and purge the steaming system to avoid bacteria build-up and to prevent clogs inside the tubes. Also, brush the filters (and all the parts that come in contact with grinds) after every brewing process to ensure that the machine is ready for the next use.

Malfunctions And Warranty

$300 models usually come with a limited one-year or two-year warranty period. Before you buy a machine make sure that all its plastic parts and steam nozzles are covered by warranty as these parts of the machine are usually the first to break.